When Nikola Tesla created
alternating current (AC) in the late 1800s, the world didn't realize
that electricity was about to change for the better. In fact,
businessmen like Thomas Edison, a fellow inventor, tried to discredit
Tesla for the discovery since he invested heavily in direct current
(DC). In fact, many of Tesla's inventions conflicted with business
interests.
What exactly was in AC that
gave DC a run for its money? AC traveled in a wave-like motion,
moving power more efficiently than DC’s straight-line motion. This
innovation meant electricity can be distributed to long distances
using low voltages, which is much safer. Tesla demonstrated the
safety of AC by using his own body as a conduit to light up lamps.
Then again, if AC is clearly
the superior system, why do appliances today still use DC or both? As
long as the world needs flashlights and other portables, the DC
system will be here to stay, especially in the form of dry-cell
batteries. While AC batteries exist, AC changes too frequently for
the battery terminals to keep up.
Tesla deserves the credit
for making modern conveniences possible. Edison eventually got a
taste of karma when Westinghouse exploited the range disadvantage of
DC, helping supply power to far-flung areas of the U.S.
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